Introduction
This module shows the methods of application of pneumatic valves and components for control and automation The methods of pure pneumatic sequential control are confined to simple examples The majority of modern systems are controlled electronically and is the subject of electropneumatic modules A message to pneumatic circuit designers:
Use proven and reliable design techniques Produce circuits and documentation that are clear to read Design for safety Do not try to be too clever, the circuit will be difficult for others to read and maintain

Symbols
The standard for fluid power symbols is ISO 1219-1. This is a set of basic shapes and rules for the construction of fluid power symbols Cylinders can be drawn to show their extreme or intermediate positions of stroke and any length above their width Valves show all states in the one symbol. The prevailing state is shown with the port connections Other components are single state symbols

Symbols valves
A valve function is known by a pair of numbers e.g. 3/2. This indicates the valve has 3 main ports and 2 states The valve symbol shows both of the states Port numbering is to CETOP RP68P and shows:
when the valve is operated at the 12 end port 1 is connected to port 2 when reset to the normal state at the 10 end port 1 is connected to nothing (0)

2 12 3 1 10

Symbols valves
A valve function is known by a pair of numbers e.g. 3/2. This indicates the valve has 3 main ports and 2 states The valve symbol shows both of the states Port numbering is to CETOP RP68P and shows:
when the valve is operated at the 12 end port 1 is connected to port 2 when reset to the normal state at the 10 end port 1 is connected to nothing (0)

2 12 3 1 10

Symbols valves
This example is for a 5/2 valve This has 5 main ports and 2 states When the valve is operated at the 14 end port 1 is connected to port 4 (also port 2 is connected to port 3) When reset to the normal state at the 12 end port 1 is connected to port 2 (also port 4 is connected to port 5)

4 14 5

2 12 1 3

Symbols valves
This example is for a 5/2 valve This has 5 main ports and 2 states When the valve is operated at the 14 end port 1 is connected to port 4 (also port 2 is connected to port 3) When reset to the normal state at the 12 end port 1 is connected to port 2 (also port 4 is connected to port 5)

4 14 5

2 12 1 3

Symbols operators manual
General manual Lever

Push button

Pedal

Pull button

Treadle

Push/pull button

Rotary knob

Symbols operators mechanical
Plunger Pressure

Spring normally as a return Roller

Pilot pressure

Differential pressure

Uni-direction or one way trip

Detent in 3 positions

Symbols 5/3 valves
All valves types shown in the normal position Type 1. All ports blocked

Circuit layout
The standard for circuit diagrams is ISO 1219-2 A4 format or A3 folded to A4 height for inclusion in a manual with other A4 documentation To be on several sheets if necessary with line identification code Minimum crossing lines Limit valves position of operation by actuators shown by a marker with reference code to symbol Circuits should be drawn with all actuators at the top of the page in order of sequential operation Other components to be drawn in sequential order from the bottom up and from left to right Circuit should show the system with pressure applied and ready to start

Component identification
The ISO suggested component numbering system is suited for large circuits and those drawn on several pages For this presentation a simple code is used For cylinders: A,B,C etc. For associated feedback valves: alpha-numeric code ‘a0’ for proof of instroke, ‘a1’ for proof of outstroke For cylinder B: b0 and b1 Note: the a0 valve symbol is drawn in the operated position because the actuator A is instroked
a0 a1

A

12
a0 3

2 1

10

12
a1

2 10 3 1

Example circuit
a0 a1 b0 b1 c0 c1

A

B

C

Sequence Run/End A+ B+ BC+ CARepeat
Run/End

a0
10 bar max

a1
6 bar

b1

b0

c1

c0

To all inlet ports marked

Actuator control 2/2 valve

2/2 Valve actuator control
A pair of the most basic of all valve types the 2/2 can be used to control a single acting cylinder The normally closed position of the valve is produced by the spring The operated position is produced by the push button One valve admits air the other valve exhausts it

12

2 10 1

12

1 10 2

OUT

IN

2/2 Valve actuator control
The button marked OUT is pushed to operate the valve Air is connected to the cylinder and it outstrokes Air cannot escape to atmosphere through the valve marked IN as this is closed The air at atmospheric pressure in the front of the cylinder vents through the breather port

12

2 1

10

12

1 10 2

OUT

IN

2/2 Valve actuator control
The push button of the valve marked OUT is released and it returns to a normal closed position Air is now trapped in the system and provided there are no leaks the piston rod will stay in the outstroked position If the load increases beyond the force exerted by the air the piston rod will start to move in

12

2 10 1

12

1 10 2

OUT

IN

2/2 Valve actuator control
The button marked IN is pushed to operate the valve Air escapes and the piston rod moves to the instroked position The push button must be held operated until the piston rod is fully in Atmospheric air will be drawn in to the front of the cylinder through the vent port

12

2 10 1

12

1 2

10

OUT

IN

2/2 Valve actuator control
If the button marked IN is released the piston rod will remain in the instroked position Any leaks in the installation can cause the piston rod to creep
12 2 10 1 12 1 10 2

OUT

IN

2/2 Valve actuator control
To control the speed of the piston rod, flow restrictors are placed in the pipes close to each of the valves. Adjustment of the restrictors will slow down the flow rate thereby giving independent outstroke and instroke speed control

12

2 10 1

12

1 10 2

OUT

IN

2/2 Valve actuator control
By repeated operation of either button during movement the piston rod can be moved in small steps for approximate positioning This will only be successful under slow speeds

12

2 10 1

12

1 10 2

OUT

IN

2/2 Valve actuator control
With any compressed air system that intentionally traps air, the potential hazard of this must be recognised Unintended release or application of pressure can give rise to unexpected movement of the piston rod A pressure indicator or gauge must be fitted to warn of the presence of pressure

12

2 10 1

12

1 10 2

OUT

IN

Actuator control 3/2 valve

3/2 valve actuator control
A 3 port valve provides the inlet and exhaust path and is the normal choice for the control of a single acting cylinder In the normal position produced by the spring, the valve is closed In the operated position produced by the push button the valve is open The push button must be held down for as long as the cylinder is outstroked

12 3

2 10 1

3/2 valve actuator control
A 3 port valve provides the inlet and exhaust path and is the normal choice for the control of a single acting cylinder In the normal position produced by the spring, the valve is closed In the operated position produced by the push button the valve is open The push button must be held down for as long as the cylinder is outstroked

12 3

2 1

10

3/2 valve actuator control
A 3 port valve provides the inlet and exhaust path and is the normal choice for the control of a single acting cylinder In the normal position produced by the spring, the valve is closed In the operated position produced by the push button the valve is open The push button must be held down for as long as the cylinder is outstroked

12 3

2 10 1

3/2 valve actuator control
To generally slow the cylinder speed an adjustable bi-directional flow regulator or fixed restrictor can be used The flow regulator setting will be a compromise as the ideal outstroke speed may not produce the desired results for the instroke speed

12 3

2 10 1

3/2 valve actuator control
To control the outstroke speed of a single acting cylinder without controlling the instroke speed, a uni-directional flow regulator is used The flow into the cylinder closes the non return valve and can only pass through the adjustable restrictor By adjusting the restrictor the outstroke speed of the cylinder can be set

12 3

2 10 1

3/2 valve actuator control
For independent speed control in each direction two flow regulators are required Installed in opposite directions to each other Upper regulator controls the outstroke speed Lower regulator controls the instroking speed

12 3

2 10 1

3/2 valve actuator control
A 3 port valve provides the inlet and exhaust path and is the normal choice for the control of a single acting cylinder In the normal position produced by the spring, the valve is closed In the operated position produced by the push button the valve is open The push button must be held down for as long as the cylinder is outstroked

12 3

2 10 1

Actuator control 5/2 valve

5/2 Valve actuator control
For a double acting cylinder the power and exhaust paths are switched simultaneously When the button is pushed the supply at port 1 is connected to port 4 and the outlet port 2 connected to exhaust port 3. The cylinder moves plus When the button is released port 1 is connected to port 2 and port 4 connected to port 5. Cylinder minus
+

4 14 5

2 12 1 3

5/2 Valve actuator control
For a double acting cylinder the power and exhaust paths are switched simultaneously When the button is pushed the supply at port 1 is connected to port 4 and the outlet port 2 connected to exhaust port 3. The cylinder moves plus When the button is released port 1 is connected to port 2 and port 4 connected to port 5. Cylinder minus
+

4 14 5

2 12 1 3

5/2 Valve actuator control
Independent speed control of the plus and minus movements In most applications speed is controlled by restricting air out of a cylinder Full power is developed to drive the piston with speed controlled by restricting the back pressure
+

4 14 5

2 12 1 3

5/2 Valve actuator control
Independent speed control of the plus and minus movements In most applications speed is controlled by restricting air out of a cylinder Full power is developed to drive the piston with speed controlled by restricting the back pressure
+

4 14 5

2 12 1 3

5/2 Valve actuator control
Valves with a spring return are mono-stable and need the operator to be held all the time that the cylinder is required in the plus position Bi-stable valves will stay in the position they were last set The lever valve example illustrated indicates a detent mechanism. The lever need not be held once the new position has been established
+

4 14 5

2 12 1 3

Manual control
Remote manual control of a double acting cylinder Valve marked + will cause the cylinder to outstroke or move plus Valve marked - will cause the cylinder to instroke or move minus The 5/2 double pilot valve is bi-stable therefore the push button valves only need to be pulsed
+

4 14 5

2 12 1 3

12

2 10 3 1

12

2 10 3 1

+

-

Manual control
Remote manual control of a double acting cylinder Valve marked + will cause the cylinder to outstroke or move plus Valve marked - will cause the cylinder to instroke or move minus The 5/2 double pilot valve is bi-stable therefore the push button valves only need to be pulsed
+

4 14 5

2 12 1 3

12

2 1

10

12

2 10 3 1

+

3

-

Manual control
Remote manual control of a double acting cylinder Valve marked + will cause the cylinder to outstroke or move plus Valve marked - will cause the cylinder to instroke or move minus The 5/2 double pilot valve is bi-stable therefore the push button valves only need to be pulsed
+

4 14 5

2 12 1 3

12

2 10 3 1

12

2 10 3 1

+

-

Manual control
Remote manual control of a double acting cylinder Valve marked + will cause the cylinder to outstroke or move plus Valve marked - will cause the cylinder to instroke or move minus The 5/2 double pilot valve is bi-stable therefore the push button valves only need to be pulsed
+

4 14 5

2 12 1 3

12

2 10 3 1

12

2 3 1

10

+

-

Manual control
Remote manual control of a double acting cylinder Valve marked + will cause the cylinder to outstroke or move plus Valve marked - will cause the cylinder to instroke or move minus The 5/2 double pilot valve is bi-stable therefore the push button valves only need to be pulsed
+

4 14 5

2 12 1 3

12

2 10 3 1

12

2 10 3 1

+

-

Semi-automatic control
Manual remote start of a double acting cylinder with automatic return Cylinder identified as “A” Trip valve operated at the completion of the plus stroke identified as “a1”
A

+

a1

4 14 5

2 12 1 3

12

2 10 3 1

12

2 10 3 1

+

-

a1

Fully-automatic control
A

+

a0

a1

4 14 5 2 10 12
Run/End

2 12 1 3

3 12
a0 3

1 2 1 10 12
a1

2 10 3 1

Continuous automatic cycling from roller operated trip valves Manual Run and End of the automatic cycling Cylinder will come to rest in the instroked position regardless of when the valve is put to End Tags for the roller feedback valves a0 and a1 show their relative positions

Sequential control

Circuit building blocks
a0 a1 b0 b1

A

B

Run/End

These circuits can be considered as building blocks for larger sequential circuits consisting of two or more cylinders Each actuator will have a power valve and two associated feedback valves. The first actuator to move also has a Run/End valve

Repeat pattern sequence
A repeat pattern sequence is one where the order of the movements in the first half of the sequence is repeated in the second half Each actuator may have one Out and In stroke only in the sequence There may be any number of actuators in the sequence The signal starting the first movement must pass through the Run/End valve Needs only the basic building blocks to solve Examples of repeat pattern sequences: A+ B+ C+ D+ A- B- C- DA- B+ C- A+ B- C+ C+ A+ B- C- A- B+

Repeat pattern sequence
a0 a1 b0 b1

A

B

Run/End

b0

b1

a1

a0

The two cylinders A and B are to perform a simple repeat pattern sequence as follows: A+ B+ A- BApply the rule “The signal given by the completion of each movement will initiate the next movement” In this way the roller valves can be identified and labelled

Repeat pattern sequence
a0 a1 b0 b1 c0 c1

A

B

C

Run/End

c0

c1

a1

a0

b1

b0

For three cylinders A, B and C also to perform a simple repeat pattern sequence as follows: A+ B+ C+ A- B- CApply the rule “The signal given by the completion of each movement will initiate the next movement”

Non-repeat pattern sequence
a0 a1 b0 b1

A

B

Run/End

a0

b0

a1

b1

If the rule applied to a repeat pattern sequence is applied to any other sequence there will be opposed signals on one or more of the 5/2 valves preventing operation This circuit demonstrates the problem The sequence is A+ B+ B- A-

Opposed signals
a0 a1 b0 b1

A

B

Run/End

a0

b0

a1

b1

When the valve is set to Run, cylinder A will not move because the 5/2 valve has an opposed signal, it is still being signalled to hold position by the feedback valve b0 If A was able to move + a similar problem will occur for the 5/2 valve of B once it was + The sequence is A+ B+ B- A-

Mechanical solution
a0 a1 b0 b1

A

B

Run/End

a0

b0

a1

b1

The problem was caused by valves b0 and a1 being operated at the time the new opposing instruction is given If these two valves were “one way trip” types and over tripped at the last movement of stroke, only a pulse would be obtained instead of a continuous signal

Cascade circuits provide a standard method of solving any sequence. It uses a minimum of additional logic hardware (one logic valve per group of sequential steps)

Shift register circuits are similar to cascade but use one logic valve for every step Electro-pneumatic circuits use solenoid valves and electromechanical relays PLC. The standard solution for medium to complex sequential systems (except where electrical equipment cannot be used)

Cascade two group
The A+ B+ B- A- circuit is solved by the two group cascade method The sequence is divided at the point where B immediately returns The two parts are allocated groups l and ll Gp l A+ B+ / Gp ll B- ATwo signal supplies are provided from a 5/2 valve one is available only in group l the other is available only in group ll Because only one group output is available at a time it is not possible to have opposed signals A standard 5/2 double pressure operated valve is the cascade valve
Group l
4 14

Group ll
2 12 1 3

Select l

5

Select ll

Cascade (two group)
a0 a1 b0 b1

A

B

b0 a1

Gp l Gp ll

Sequence Gp l A+ B+ Gp ll B- ARun/End

a0

b1

Cascade (two group)
a0 a1 b0 b1

A

B

b0 a1

Gp l Gp ll

Sequence Gp l A+ B+ Gp ll B- ARun/End

a0

b1

Cascade (two group)
a0 a1 b0 b1

A

B

b0 a1

Gp l Gp ll

Sequence Gp l A+ B+ Gp ll B- ARun/End

a0

b1

Cascade (two group)
a0 a1 b0 b1

A

B

b0 a1

Gp l Gp ll

Sequence Gp l A+ B+ Gp ll B- ARun/End

a0

b1

Cascade (two group)
a0 a1 b0 b1

A

B

b0 a1

Gp l Gp ll

Sequence Gp l A+ B+ Gp ll B- ARun/End

a0

b1

Cascade (two group)
a0 a1 b0 b1

A

B

b0 a1

Gp l Gp ll

Sequence Gp l A+ B+ Gp ll B- ARun/End

a0

b1

Cascade building blocks
A two group building block consists of a lever valve to run and end the sequence plus the 5/2 double pilot operated cascade valve For a two group system consisting of any number of cylinders this building block and the cylinder building blocks are all that is required to solve the sequence
Gp l Gp ll
12 5 2 10 12 3 1 1 3

4 14 Run/End

2

Sel ll

Sel l

Cascade building blocks
This three group building block establishes an interconnecting pattern that can be extended to any number of groups
Gp l
Run/End

Gp ll Sel l Sel ll Gp lll Sel lll

Dual trip building blocks
When a sequence has a cylinder operating twice in one overall sequence a dual trip building block may be required for each of the two feedback valves The supply will be from different groups and the output go to different destinations Example is for feedback valve a1 of cylinder A when A is sent + both in Group x and Group y
Send A+ a1 in x a1 in y

A+ in Group x a1

A+ in Group y

Note: can often be rationalised to less than these three components

Cascade rules
Establish the correct sequence Divide the sequence in to groups. Always start a sequence with the Run/End valve selecting group l e.g. R/E | A+ B+ | B- C+ | C- ASelect the cylinder building blocks Select the cascade building block Select dual trip building blocks if required
Interconnect the blocks as follows: The first function in each group is signalled directly by that group supply The last trip valve operated in each group is supplied with main supply air and selects the next group The remaining trip valves are supplied with air from their respective groups and initiate the next function The “run/end” valve will control the signal from the last trip valve to be operated

Three position valves

5/3 Valve
5/3 valves have a third mid position The valve can be tristable e.g. a detented lever operator or monostable e.g. a double air or double solenoid with spring centre There are three common configurations for the mid position:
All ports blocked Centre open exhaust Centre open pressure

5/3 Valve actuator control
The valve illustrated has “all ports blocked” in the mid position Whenever the mid position is selected the pressure conditions in the cylinder will be frozen This can be used to stop the piston at part stroke in some positioning applications Flow regulators mounted close to the cylinder to minimise creep

4

2

14 5 1 3

12

5/3 Valve actuator control
The valve illustrated has “all ports blocked” in the mid position Whenever the mid position is selected the pressure conditions in the cylinder will be frozen This can be used to stop the piston at part stroke in some positioning applications Flow regulators mounted close to the cylinder to minimise creep

4

2

14 5 1 3

12

5/3 Valve actuator control
The valve illustrated has “all ports blocked” in the mid position Whenever the mid position is selected the pressure conditions in the cylinder will be frozen This can be used to stop the piston at part stroke in some positioning applications Flow regulators mounted close to the cylinder to minimise creep

4

2

14 5 1 3

12

5/3 Valve actuator control
The valve illustrated has “all ports blocked” in the mid position Whenever the mid position is selected the pressure conditions in the cylinder will be frozen This can be used to stop the piston at part stroke in some positioning applications Flow regulators mounted close to the cylinder to minimise creep

4

2

14 5

12 1 3

5/3 Valve actuator control
The valve illustrated has “all ports blocked” in the mid position Whenever the mid position is selected the pressure conditions in the cylinder will be frozen This can be used to stop the piston at part stroke in some positioning applications Flow regulators mounted close to the cylinder to minimise creep

4

2

14 5 1 3

12

5/3 Valve actuator control
This version of a 5/3 valve is “centre open exhaust” The supply at port 1 is isolated and the cylinder has power exhausted when this centre position is selected The version illustrated shows a mono-stable version double pilot operated spring centre The cylinder will be preexhausted when changing from the mid position

14

4

2

12

5

1 3

5/3 Valve actuator control
This version of a 5/3 valve is “centre open pressure” The supply at port 1 is connected to both sides of the cylinder and the exhaust ports isolated when this centre position is selected Can be used to balance pressures in positioning applications The version illustrated is mono-stable, double solenoid, spring centre

14

4

2

12

5

1 3

Logic functions for poppet and spool valves

Logic AND
To obtain the output Z both plungers X AND Y must be operated and held If X only is operated the air will be blocked at port 1 in valve Y If Y only is operated there will be no pressure available at port 1 If either X or Y is released the output signal Z will be lost
Z
12 2 10 3 1

Y

12

2 10 3 1

X

Logic AND
To obtain the output Z both plungers X AND Y must be operated and held If X only is operated the air will be blocked at port 1 in valve Y If Y only is operated there will be no pressure available at port 1 If either X or Y is released the output signal Z will be lost
Z
12 2 10 3 1

Y

12

2 1

10

X

3

Logic AND
To obtain the output Z both plungers X AND Y must be operated and held If X only is operated the air will be blocked at port 1 in valve Y If Y only is operated there will be no pressure available at port 1 If either X or Y is released the output signal Z will be lost
Z
12 2 10 3 1

Y

12

2 10 3 1

X

Logic AND
To obtain the output Z both plungers X AND Y must be operated and held If X only is operated the air will be blocked at port 1 in valve Y If Y only is operated there will be no pressure available at port 1 If either X or Y is released the output signal Z will be lost
Z
12 2 1 10

Y

3

12

2 10 3 1

X

Logic AND
To obtain the output Z both plungers X AND Y must be operated and held If X only is operated the air will be blocked at port 1 in valve Y If Y only is operated there will be no pressure available at port 1 If either X or Y is released the output signal Z will be lost
Z
12 2 1 10

Y

3

12

2 1

10

X

3

Logic AND
To obtain the output Z both plungers X AND Y must be operated and held If X only is operated the air will be blocked at port 1 in valve Y If Y only is operated there will be no pressure available at port 1 If either X or Y is released the output signal Z will be lost
Z
12 2 1 10

Y

3

12

2 10 3 1

X

Logic AND
To obtain the output Z both plungers X AND Y must be operated and held If X only is operated the air will be blocked at port 1 in valve Y If Y only is operated there will be no pressure available at port 1 If either X or Y is released the output signal Z will be lost
Z
12 2 10 3 1

Y

12

2 10 3 1

X

Logic AND
This method must not be used as a two handed safety control It is too easy to abuse. e.g. one of the buttons could be permanently fixed down and the system operated from the other button only Use the purpose designed two handed safety control unit
Z
12 2 10 3 1

Y

12

2 10 3 1

X

Logic OR
Use of an ‘OR’ function shuttle valve Source X and Y can be remote from each other and remote from the destination of Z When X or Y is operated the shuttle valve seal moves across to prevent the signal Z from being lost through the exhaust of the other valve
Z

12

2 10 3 1

Y
12 2 10 3 1

X

Logic OR
Use of an ‘OR’ function shuttle valve Source X and Y can be remote from each other and remote from the destination of Z When X or Y is operated the shuttle valve seal moves across to prevent the signal Z from being lost through the exhaust of the other valve
Z

12

2 10 3 1

Y
12 2 3 1 10

X

Logic OR
Use of an ‘OR’ function shuttle valve Source X and Y can be remote from each other and remote from the destination of Z When X or Y is operated the shuttle valve seal moves across to prevent the signal Z from being lost through the exhaust of the other valve
Z

12

2 10 3 1

Y
12 2 10 3 1

X

Logic OR
Use of an ‘OR’ function shuttle valve Source X and Y can be remote from each other and remote from the destination of Z When X or Y is operated the shuttle valve seal moves across to prevent the signal Z from being lost through the exhaust of the other valve
Z

12

2 3 1

10

Y
12 2 10 3 1

X

Logic OR
Use of an ‘OR’ function shuttle valve Source X and Y can be remote from each other and remote from the destination of Z When X or Y is operated the shuttle valve seal moves across to prevent the signal Z from being lost through the exhaust of the other valve
Z

12

2 10 3 1

Y
12 2 10 3 1

X

Logic NOT
A logic NOT applies to the state of the output when the operating signal is present (the output is simply an inversion of the operating signal) The valve shown is a normally open type (inlet port numbered 1) When the signal X is present there is NOT output Z When X is removed output Z is given

Z
12 2 10 1 3

X

Logic NOT
A logic NOT applies to the state of the output when the operating signal is present (the output is simply an inversion of the operating signal) The valve shown is a normally open type (inlet port numbered 1) When the signal X is present there is NOT output Z When X is removed output Z is given

Z
12 2 1 3 10

X

Logic NOT
A logic NOT applies to the state of the output when the operating signal is present (the output is simply an inversion of the operating signal) The valve shown is a normally open type (inlet port numbered 1) When the signal X is present there is NOT output Z When X is removed output Z is given

Z
12 2 10 1 3

X

Logic MEMORY
A logic MEMORY allows the output signal state (ON or OFF) to be maintained after the input signal has been removed Any bi-stable valve is a logic MEMORY With this lever detented valve, once the lever has been moved X direction or Y direction it can be released and will stay in that position

Z X
12

Y

3

10 1

Logic MEMORY
A logic MEMORY allows the output signal state (ON or OFF) to be maintained after the signal that set it has been removed
X

Z
12 3 10 1

Y

Logic MEMORY
A bi-stable double pilot valve can be set or reset simply by a pulse (push and release) on buttons X or Y
Z
12 3 10 1

12

2 10 3 1

Y
12 2 10 3 1

X

Logic MEMORY
A bi-stable double pilot valve can be set or reset simply by a pulse (push and release) on buttons X or Y
Z
12 3 1 10

12

2 10 3 1

Y
12 2 3 1 10

X

Logic MEMORY
A bi-stable double pilot valve can be set or reset simply by a pulse (push and release) on buttons X or Y
Z
12 3 1 10

12

2 10 3 1

Y
12 2 10 3 1

X

Logic MEMORY
A bi-stable double pilot valve can be set or reset simply by a pulse (push and release) on buttons X or Y
Z
12 3 10 1

12

2 1

10

Y
12 2 10 3 1

3

X

Logic MEMORY
A bi-stable double pilot valve can be set or reset simply by a pulse (push and release) on buttons X or Y
Z
12 3 10 1

12

2 10 3 1

Y
12 2 10 3 1

X

Logic MEMORY (latch)
A popular memory circuit is the latch Will not re-make after pneumatic power failure A pulse on X operates the pilot / spring valve to give output Z A feedback from Z runs through the normally open valve Y to latch the operation of Z when X is released A pulse on Y breaks the latch and Z is exhausted
Z Y
12 1 3 10 2 12 3 10 1

12

2 10 3 1

X

Logic MEMORY (latch)
A popular memory circuit is the latch Will not re-make after pneumatic power failure A pulse on X operates the pilot / spring valve to give output Z A feedback from Z runs through the normally open valve Y to latch the operation of Z when X is released A pulse on Y breaks the latch and Z is exhausted
Z Y
12 1 3 10 2 12 3 1 10

12

2 1

10

X
3

Logic MEMORY (latch)
A popular memory circuit is the latch Will not re-make after pneumatic power failure A pulse on X operates the pilot / spring valve to give output Z A feedback from Z runs through the normally open valve Y to latch the operation of Z when X is released A pulse on Y breaks the latch and Z is exhausted
Z Y
12 1 3 10 2 12 3 1 10

12

2 10 3 1

X

Logic MEMORY (latch)
A popular memory circuit is the latch Will not re-make after pneumatic power failure A pulse on X operates the pilot / spring valve to give output Z A feedback from Z runs through the normally open valve Y to latch the operation of Z when X is released A pulse on Y breaks the latch and Z is exhausted
Z Y
1 12 3 10 2 12 3 10 1

12

2 10 3 1

X

Logic MEMORY (latch)
A popular memory circuit is the latch Will not re-make after pneumatic power failure A pulse on X operates the pilot / spring valve to give output Z A feedback from Z runs through the normally open valve Y to latch the operation of Z when X is released A pulse on Y breaks the latch and Z is exhausted
Z Y
12 1 3 10 2 12 3 10 1

3/2 NO / NC
A fully balanced valve allows pressure on any pot or combination of ports A single valve can be used normally open or normally closed For normally open the supply pressure is connected to port 1 For normally closed the supply pressure is connected to port 3
2 10 3 1

12

12 3

2 10 1

3/2 NO / NC
A fully balanced valve allows pressure on any pot or combination of ports A single valve can be used normally open or normally closed For normally open the supply pressure is connected to port 1 For normally closed the supply pressure is connected to port 3
2 1

12 3

10

12 3

2 1

10

3/2 Valve selection / diversion
Selection of one of two supplies connected to ports 1 and 3 can be different pressures Diversion of one supply to one of two outlets If it is required to exhaust the downstream air a 5/2 valve is required
2 10 3 1

12

3 12

1 10 2

3/2 Valve selection / diversion
Selection of one of two supplies connected to ports 1 and 3 can be different pressures Diversion of one supply to one of two outlets If it is required to exhaust the downstream air a 5/2 valve is required
2 1

12 3

10

3 12

1 10 2

Latch with controls
In this version of a latch the push button valves are connected to perform ‘OR’ and ‘NOT’ functions The ‘OFF’ valve must be placed last in the signal chain so that if both valves are operated together the ‘OFF’ command will dominate over the ‘ON’ command
Out
12 3 2 10 1

ON

12 3

2 10 1

OFF 12
3

2 10 1

OR, AND, NOT
A single 3/2 pilot operated spring return valve can be use for any of these logic functions x OR y gives output z x AND y gives output z x gives NOT z
OR z
12 3 2 10 1

x AND
12

y z
3 2 10 1

x NOT z
12 3

y
2 10 1

x

Single pulse maker
Converts a prolonged signal x into a single pulse z Signal z must be removed to allow the valve to reset then x can be applied again The duration of the pulse can be adjusted with the flow regulator
z
12 3 2 10 1

x

Slow initial pressure build up
Choose a 3/2 pilot spring valve with a relatively high operating force e.g. 3 to 4 bar When the quick connect coupling is made, the output at port 2 is controlled at the rate of the flow regulator setting When the pressure is high enough to operate the valve full flow will take over
12 3 2 10 1

Pre-select
The lever valve can preselect the movement of the cylinder OUT or IN The movement will occur the next time the plunger valve is operated The plunger valve can be released immediately and subsequently operated and released any number of times

12 3 12 3 2 10 1 2 10 12 OUT/IN pre-select 3 1

2 10 1

5/2 OR function
The valve at position ‘a’ is reversed connected and supplied from the valve conventionally connected at position ‘b’ The cylinder can be controlled from either position ‘a’ ‘OR’ position ‘b’

4

2 12

a

14 5 1 3

4

2 12

b

14 5 1 3

Single pulse control
Each time the foot operated valve is pressed the cylinder will single stroke + and - alternately First foot operation the cylinder moves out Second foot operation the cylinder moves in Third….. out and so on
12 3

4 14 5 12 3 2 10 1 1

2 12

12 3

2 1

10

2 10 1

Air conservation
Power stroke in the instroke direction only Differential area of the piston gives an outstroke force when the pressure is balanced Air used to outstroke is equivalent to a cylinder with only the same bore as the rod diameter Assumes the cylinder is not loaded on the plus stroke and low friction

4 14 5 1

2 12

Air conservation
Power stroke in the instroke direction only Differential area of the piston gives an outstroke force when the pressure is balanced Air used to outstroke is equivalent to a cylinder with only the same bore as the rod diameter Assumes the cylinder is not loaded on the plus stroke and low friction

4 14 5 1

2 12

Double flow
Where a larger 3/2 valve is not available Two flow paths in a 5/2 valve each with a separate supply can be arranged to give double flow or supply separate devices Ensure the tube size to the cylinder is large enough to take the double flow

4 14 5 1

2 12 3

Double flow
Where a larger 3/2 valve is not available Two flow paths in a 5/2 valve each with a separate supply can be arranged to give double flow or supply separate devices Ensure the tube size to the cylinder is large enough to take the double flow

4 14 5 1

2 12 3

Counting
4

Counting applications are best achieved with electro-mechanical or programmable electronic counters Pneumatic counting circuits use large numbers of logic valves and can be slow The counting chain shown will count to 4 Red and blue are nonoverlapping alternate pulses, purple is the reset line

3

2

1

Counting application
a0 a1

The counting circuit is applied to count 4 strokes of a cylinder At rest all counting valves are held reset by the start valve Start outstrokes ‘A’ Alternate signals from ‘a1’ and ‘a0’ progresses operation of the counting valves up the chain On the 4th operation of ‘a1’ the green signal resets the start valve to stop the cylinder

A

Start

a1

a0

Feedback methods

Time delay
A signal is restricted to slow the rate of pressure build up on a pressure switch (3/2 differential pressure operated valve) When the pressure switch operates a strong unrestricted output is given A reservoir provides capacitance to allow less fine and sensitive settings on the flow regulator making it easy to adjust
Output

12 3 1

2

10

Signal in

Time delay
Manual remote start of a double acting cylinder with a time delay in the outstroked position before automatic return
14 5

A

+

a1

4

2 12 1 3 12 3 1 2 10

2 12 3 10 1 12
a1

2 10 3 1

Pressure decay
Manual remote start of a double acting cylinder Uses a low pressure operated valve connected normally open When the back pressure in the front of the cylinder falls below 0.1 bar the return signal is given Connection taken between the cylinder and flow regulator Useful for pressing work pieces of variable size
A

+

a1

4 14 5

2 12 1 3

2 12 3 10 1 10

2 1

12 3

0.1bar

Electro-pneumatic
The majority of systems use electrical/electronic control due to the high degree of sophistication and flexibility Solenoid valves are used to control cylinders Feedback signals are from reed switches, sensors and electrical limit switches Logic is hard wired or programmed in to a PLC (programmable logic controller) Circuit building block for each cylinder
a0 a1